The Broncos and Chiefs battled on Sunday night in Denver in a crucial AFC West showdown in a game that was flexed into the primetime spot because of the enormity of the game featuring two 7-3 teams. The matchup didn't disappoint as the Chiefs outlasted the Broncos 30-27 in overtime on a game-winning 34 yard field goal as time expired in the extra session to give the Chiefs the win. It was about as brutal of a loss the Broncos had suffered in the past few years. They had battled back to take a 17-16 lead in the 4th quarter, and they extended their lead to 24-16 with about three minutes to go. At this point, you would expect the Broncos defense to put the game away like they have so many times, but Alex Smith had other ideas. The Chiefs drove 13 plays and 75 yards for a Smith to Tyreek Hill touchdown, and then Smith connected on the two-point conversion to tie the game at 24 with only seconds left. In overtime, the Broncos got the ball first and could only muster a field goal to take the lead at 27-24, but once again the Chiefs rallied against the Broncos defense and got a field goal to tie the game at 27 in the extra period. The Broncos next drive stalled at the KC 45, and they attempted a 62 yard field goal by Brandon McManus, but the kick was wide left and KC took over at the Denver 48. With the short field position, the Chiefs took advantage and moved the ball in position for Santos who hit the 34 yarder after it deflected in off the upright. Just like that the game was over, and the Broncos were on the losing end of a heartbreaker and they were left wondering how this game slipped away so dramatically at the end. Here are my thoughts and observations on the game....
1) When our defense takes the field and they are up 8 points with three minutes to go, and the Chiefs have to go 75 yards with Alex Smith, then you would expect the Broncos defense to make a play and end the game like they always do. Unfortunately, the defense didn't close the deal,and the Chiefs somehow pulled it off. It was shocking that it happened. To make matters worse, the Chiefs converted a 4th and 10 with 19 seconds left at the Denver 14, and they converted the next play for a touchdown. Just a shocking turn of events there. Plus, the Broncos also gave up two field goal drives in overtime. The defense needs to take some of the blame here because they could stopped the Chiefs when it mattered, and they didn't.
2) The special teams were an absolute disaster and it cost the Broncos the game. Here are the mistakes that the Broncos made during the game: A muffed punt by Jordan Norwood that he had to recover at the Broncos 5 yard line, which eventually set up the safety that gave the Chiefs the early2-0 lead. Tyreek Hill taking the ensuing free kick for a TD to make it 9-0. An illegal formation on the field goal which gave KC the first down and instead of a 12-10 lead the Chiefs scored a TD to make it 16-10. Norwood fumbling another punt, which cost the Broncos critical field position and some time off the clock. They also had three critical holding calls on punts which cost them valuable yardage. There was even a spotty coverage on the kick at 27-24 in OT that gave the Chiefs the ball past the 35 yard line on the drive they scored to tie it at 27. It was about as bad of a game you scan have on special teams and it cost the Broncos the game. Just bad football from that unit.
3) This was by far Trevor Siemian's best game of his career. He was sensational-especially in the second half. He finished 20-34 for 368 yards and 3 TDs and 0 INT. He made three big-time throws. One to Emmanuel Sanders down the sideline in the 4th quarter and then another one to Sanders down the middle for a 35 yard TD throw to make it 17-16. He also made a great throw to Bennie Fowler for a 76 yard touchdown to make it 24-16 with three minutes to go in the game. His most impressive play came when he scrambled around, avoided a Justin Houston sack, rolled to his right and made a great TD throw to Jordan Taylor. Siemian played the game of his life, and was very impressive against the Chiefs pressure packages, but it was wasted in the loss.
4) Von Miller was great again with 3 sacks. He was all over the field and dominated in the run game and covering down the field. He now leads the NFL with 12.5 sacks.
5) This was a hard-hitting, playoff type game and atmosphere on Sunday Night Football. It was a classic game in every way. There were great hits, strategy and huge decisions, and big-time plays both on offense and defense. It sucks that the Broncos were on the losing end of the game, but it was an instant classic. It reminded me of the classic Joe Montana-John Elway duel on Monday Night Football back in 1994 when KC rallied to win it late. This game also reminded me of some of those heartbreaking losses the Broncos had like this in the Mike Shanahan era from 2002-2008.
6) Gary Kubiak's decision to go for the 62 yard field goal in OT is getting all the press after the game. I can't kill him on that decision. It is a no-win decision and tough one to make on the spot. Yes, if he punts the ball with 1:00 minute to go, then the Broncos probably end up with the tie. I understand that he going for the win there, and even though it is a very long shot that McManus will make that kick, I get why he tried it. He was basically screwed either way, and unless McManus makes that kick, Kubes will be criticized by everyone after the fact. The fact is that it never should have come down to that. The Broncos had plenty of chances on both sides to put the game away earlier.
7) It was a very tough loss to a very good opponent at home. There are no good losses in the NFL. This one is going to sting, but the Broncos have a lot of football left to play and there are five games left to make the playoffs. It starts next week at Jacksonville. Go down there and get the win over a team that is 2-9. No excuses. Get the win and get on that plane with an 8-4 record.
Tuesday, November 29, 2016
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
Broncos-Chiefs Preview and Week 12 Picks!
The Broncos return from their bye week at 7-3 and host the 7-3 Kansas City Chiefs in a huge AFC West showdown on Sunday Night Football on NBC. Every week from here on out will be very important, but this one will be extremely vital for the Broncos if they are going to make their playoff run down the stretch. This is the first of two games against the Chiefs, and the other one will come in Week 16 on Christmas night in Arrowhead Stadium. The Broncos need to win this game and the next two at Jacksonville and at Tennessee to get to 10-3 because their final three games are very tough (NE at home, at KC, and Oak at home). The Broncos are getting some key players back from injury for the game against the Chiefs. Aqib Talib will be returning from a back injury and Derek Wolfe will be back from an elbow injury. If the Broncos are healthy on defense, then they will have a very good chance to beat the Chiefs. On the flip side, the Broncos offense will struggle to move the ball on the Chiefs defense. KC is getting Justin Houston back up to speed on the edge, and I think it will be a difficult matchup for Denver in that area. This game will be close, and don't be fooled by the Chiefs loss at home on Sunday to the Bucs. Both teams are evenly matched, and it will come down to which team makes the least amount of mistakes and which team can move the ball enough on offense to win the game. I am worried that the Chiefs will be able to do a little bit more than the Broncos and that could be enough for KC to win this game.
Kansas City (+3.5) over DENVER
Final Score: Chiefs-20 Broncos-14
Carolina (+4) over OAKLAND: The Panthers are 4-6 and their playoff hopes are on life support. The Raiders won a huge game over the Texans on MNF, and at 8-2 they are having their best season since 2002. This could be a game that the Raiders could lose, and I think the fatigue will be a factor from playing in high altitude in Mexico City last week. The Panthers will be a tough out and the Raiders will win, but it could be a lot closer than expected.
Kansas City (+3.5) over DENVER
Final Score: Chiefs-20 Broncos-14
Now, onto the rest of the picks for Week 12......
Last Week's Record: 10-4
Thanksgiving Record: 3-0
Thanksgiving Record: 3-0
Overall Record: 88-65-9
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
HOUSTON (+2) over San Diego: The Texans suffered a tough loss in Mexico City to the Raiders on Monday night, and now they head back home to take on the 4-6 Chargers. A lot of people think that the Chargers could win this game, and they are actually favored, but I think the Texans will be too much for them. Expect a close game, but look for the Texans to come out on top.
Tennessee (-4) over CHICAGO: The Bears are a mess at 2-8, and the injuries have really started to pile up. Jay Cutler is out and Matt Barkley gets the start. The Titans are 5-6 and lost a tough one at Indy last week, but they are still in the race in the AFC South, and they will take of business and get the win over the Bears on the road.
BUFFALO (-7) over Jacksonville: The Jags are also 2-8, and they are playing for jobs and Head Coach Gus Bradley is likely coming to the end of his tenure in Jacksonville. The Bills are 5-5 and in the mix in the AFC Wild Card picture. They will be too much for the Jags in Buffalo on Sunday, and they will get to 6-5.
BALTIMORE (-4) over Cincy: The Bengals have fallen apart and now are 3-6-1. Their season is coming undone, and the Ravens at 5-5 are fighting for the AFC North crown. The Ravens won't screw this up and they will put the Bengals out of their misery.
Arizona (+4) over ATLANTA: The Falcons will win this game to get to 7-4, but this game seems like it will be closer than people expect. This could be the best game of the early ones on Sunday.
MIAMI (-7) over San Francisco: Give the Dolphins credit. They did nothing on offense in LA on Sunday and were down 10-0 in the 4th quarter. They scored two touchdowns late and won the game 14-10. It was a huge win and now they are 6-4 with a four-game winning streak. They get a break here with the 1-9 49ers coming into South Florida. The Dolphins have things rolling at this point and that will continue with a win this Sunday over lowly San Fran.
NEW ORLEANS (-7) over Los Angeles: The Jared Goff era had a rough start last week in the loss to the Dolphins. At 4-6, the Rams are still competing for a playoff spot, but we all know that they are going to make it in this year. The Saints are 4-6 and coming off that brutal loss to Denver at home two weeks ago. I know the Rams defense is good, but they won't be able to hold off the Saints. New Orleans gets to 5-6 and keeps their slim playoff hopes alive.
NY Giants (-7) over CLEVELAND: The Giants might be the most flawed 7-3 team in recent history, but they are winning and that is all that matters. They won't falter this week in Cleveland when they take on the 0-11 Browns. Could the G-Men blow this game? In the past, I could see it happening, but the Giants are winning close games and they are winning the games they need to win this year and this week will be no different.
TAMPA BAY (+6) over Seattle: This is a sneaky good game in the late window on Sunday. The Bucs are 5-5 after a big win in KC last week, and the Seahawks are rolling at 7-2-1 and have established themselves as the favorites in the NFC. Seattle will win the game, but I could see this game being close in the 4th quarter.
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
HOUSTON (+2) over San Diego: The Texans suffered a tough loss in Mexico City to the Raiders on Monday night, and now they head back home to take on the 4-6 Chargers. A lot of people think that the Chargers could win this game, and they are actually favored, but I think the Texans will be too much for them. Expect a close game, but look for the Texans to come out on top.
Tennessee (-4) over CHICAGO: The Bears are a mess at 2-8, and the injuries have really started to pile up. Jay Cutler is out and Matt Barkley gets the start. The Titans are 5-6 and lost a tough one at Indy last week, but they are still in the race in the AFC South, and they will take of business and get the win over the Bears on the road.
BUFFALO (-7) over Jacksonville: The Jags are also 2-8, and they are playing for jobs and Head Coach Gus Bradley is likely coming to the end of his tenure in Jacksonville. The Bills are 5-5 and in the mix in the AFC Wild Card picture. They will be too much for the Jags in Buffalo on Sunday, and they will get to 6-5.
BALTIMORE (-4) over Cincy: The Bengals have fallen apart and now are 3-6-1. Their season is coming undone, and the Ravens at 5-5 are fighting for the AFC North crown. The Ravens won't screw this up and they will put the Bengals out of their misery.
Arizona (+4) over ATLANTA: The Falcons will win this game to get to 7-4, but this game seems like it will be closer than people expect. This could be the best game of the early ones on Sunday.
MIAMI (-7) over San Francisco: Give the Dolphins credit. They did nothing on offense in LA on Sunday and were down 10-0 in the 4th quarter. They scored two touchdowns late and won the game 14-10. It was a huge win and now they are 6-4 with a four-game winning streak. They get a break here with the 1-9 49ers coming into South Florida. The Dolphins have things rolling at this point and that will continue with a win this Sunday over lowly San Fran.
NEW ORLEANS (-7) over Los Angeles: The Jared Goff era had a rough start last week in the loss to the Dolphins. At 4-6, the Rams are still competing for a playoff spot, but we all know that they are going to make it in this year. The Saints are 4-6 and coming off that brutal loss to Denver at home two weeks ago. I know the Rams defense is good, but they won't be able to hold off the Saints. New Orleans gets to 5-6 and keeps their slim playoff hopes alive.
NY Giants (-7) over CLEVELAND: The Giants might be the most flawed 7-3 team in recent history, but they are winning and that is all that matters. They won't falter this week in Cleveland when they take on the 0-11 Browns. Could the G-Men blow this game? In the past, I could see it happening, but the Giants are winning close games and they are winning the games they need to win this year and this week will be no different.
TAMPA BAY (+6) over Seattle: This is a sneaky good game in the late window on Sunday. The Bucs are 5-5 after a big win in KC last week, and the Seahawks are rolling at 7-2-1 and have established themselves as the favorites in the NFC. Seattle will win the game, but I could see this game being close in the 4th quarter.
Carolina (+4) over OAKLAND: The Panthers are 4-6 and their playoff hopes are on life support. The Raiders won a huge game over the Texans on MNF, and at 8-2 they are having their best season since 2002. This could be a game that the Raiders could lose, and I think the fatigue will be a factor from playing in high altitude in Mexico City last week. The Panthers will be a tough out and the Raiders will win, but it could be a lot closer than expected.
New England (-8) over NY JETS: At 3-7, the Jets are having a disastrous season and instead of going with Bryce Petty at QB, they are going back to Ryan Fitzpatrick. That move has sent the Jets fan base into a frenzy. To make matters worse, the 8-2 Pats come into MetLife Stadium on Sunday. The Pats will love nothing more than to pound the Jets and put them away, and I think that is what will happen this week.
Green Bay (+4) over PHILLY: I know I have been waiting for the Packers to break out of their slump, and each week the Packers haven't been able to do it. At 4-6, they need a win or their season could be over with a loss on Monday Night Football at Philly. The Eagles come in at 5-5, but they still have a chance to get into the playoffs. I would think that the Eagles will win this game at home, but I have to think at some point the Packers will play better and win a game they shouldn't. Could the Packers really fall to 4-7? It very well could happen but I'll take them one more time to break out.
NFL Thanksgiving Day Picks
Last Week's Record: 10-4
Overall Record: 85-65-9
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
The NFL has cooked up a really solid triple-header for Thanksgiving day and night. All three games feature teams that are at or above .500, and each game has a significant impact in the playoff race. It starts in Detroit in what is being called the biggest Thanksgiving game in Lions history! The late afternoon game features a classic NFC East showdown between the 6-3-1 Redskins and the 9-1 Cowboys. The nightcap is a huge game in the AFC wildcard race with both the Steelers and Colts battling with 5-5 records. Here are my picks for this year's Thanksgiving feast of NFL action....
DETROIT (-2) over Minnesota: Crucial game for both teams as they come into the game at 6-4. It should go a long way in determining who might win the NFC North, and this should be an interesting game since they played a wild overtime game in Minnesota less than a month ago. I like the Lions at home in a close game.
Washington (+7) over DALLAS: The 9-1 Cowboys continue to roll, and they look like they are headed for at least a top 2 seed in the NFC and a bye in the first round of the playoffs. Before they get there, they have to deal with the NFC East and the surging Redskins. Washington comes in a 6-3-1 after dispatching the Packers at home on SNF, but now they have a short week and a tough assignment heading to Dallas. I give them a puncher's chance here to pull the upset.
Pittsburgh (-7) over INDY: The allure was taken off this game with the fact that Andrew Luck will not play due to a concussion. The Steelers catch a break there, and I'm sure they won't make it easy, but it will be hard to trust QB Scott Tolzien as Luck's replacement. The Steelers will roll and get to 6-5.
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
The NFL has cooked up a really solid triple-header for Thanksgiving day and night. All three games feature teams that are at or above .500, and each game has a significant impact in the playoff race. It starts in Detroit in what is being called the biggest Thanksgiving game in Lions history! The late afternoon game features a classic NFC East showdown between the 6-3-1 Redskins and the 9-1 Cowboys. The nightcap is a huge game in the AFC wildcard race with both the Steelers and Colts battling with 5-5 records. Here are my picks for this year's Thanksgiving feast of NFL action....
DETROIT (-2) over Minnesota: Crucial game for both teams as they come into the game at 6-4. It should go a long way in determining who might win the NFC North, and this should be an interesting game since they played a wild overtime game in Minnesota less than a month ago. I like the Lions at home in a close game.
Washington (+7) over DALLAS: The 9-1 Cowboys continue to roll, and they look like they are headed for at least a top 2 seed in the NFC and a bye in the first round of the playoffs. Before they get there, they have to deal with the NFC East and the surging Redskins. Washington comes in a 6-3-1 after dispatching the Packers at home on SNF, but now they have a short week and a tough assignment heading to Dallas. I give them a puncher's chance here to pull the upset.
Pittsburgh (-7) over INDY: The allure was taken off this game with the fact that Andrew Luck will not play due to a concussion. The Steelers catch a break there, and I'm sure they won't make it easy, but it will be hard to trust QB Scott Tolzien as Luck's replacement. The Steelers will roll and get to 6-5.
Sunday, November 20, 2016
Week 11 Quick Picks
Last Week's Record:6-7-1
Overall Record: 75-61-9
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Tennessee (+3) over INDY
DETROIT (-6) over Jacksonville
Tampa Bay (+7) over KANSAS CITY
NY GIANTS (-7) over Chicago
MINNESOTA (-2) over Arizona
Buffalo (+3) over CINCY
Baltimore (+7) over DALLAS
Pittsburgh (-8) over CLEVELAND
Miami (-1) over LOS ANGELES
New England (-11) over SAN FRANCISCO
SEATTLE (-6) over Philly
Green Bay (+3) over WASHINGTON
Oakland (-6) over Houston (In Mexico City)
Overall Record: 75-61-9
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Tennessee (+3) over INDY
DETROIT (-6) over Jacksonville
Tampa Bay (+7) over KANSAS CITY
NY GIANTS (-7) over Chicago
MINNESOTA (-2) over Arizona
Buffalo (+3) over CINCY
Baltimore (+7) over DALLAS
Pittsburgh (-8) over CLEVELAND
Miami (-1) over LOS ANGELES
New England (-11) over SAN FRANCISCO
SEATTLE (-6) over Philly
Green Bay (+3) over WASHINGTON
Oakland (-6) over Houston (In Mexico City)
Thursday, November 17, 2016
Monday, November 14, 2016
Broncos Return Blocked PAT, Stun Saints 25-23 in Thrilling Fashion
The Broncos needed a big win on Sunday over the Saints in New Orleans to get to 7-3 headed into their bye week. They took a 10-0 lead early, lost the lead at 17-10, regained the lead at 20-17 and then watched as Drew Brees threw what looked like the a potentially game winning TD with under two minutes to go, and then in the most improbable ending Justin Simmons leaped over the line, blocked the PAT, and Will Parks picked it up and returned it all the way for the two-point play to give Denver the 25-23 victory in an absolute stunner. The Broncos got the win they needed and now they will head to the bye week with a chance to get healthy and give this team much needed rest heading into the final six weeks of the season. Here are my thoughts and observations on the wild game in the Bayou....
1) The game started exactly the way you need a game to start on the road. The Broncos forced a punt early, then they came down the field easily and Trevor Siemian hit Jordan Taylor on a really nice touchdown pass on a go route to give Denver a 7-0 lead. Then, they got a interception by Darian Stewart on Brees, and they were able to add to the lead with a Brandon McManus field goal to make it 10-0. Stewart also added another interception off of Brees on a great play by Bradley Roby to deflect it. That is about as good of a start that you can get on the road.
2) The turning point in the first half was when Siemian got picked off right before the half with the Broncos driving. It was a bad read by Siemian, and the Saints made them pay by getting a field goal to make it 10-3 right at the end of the half. That was a huge play at that point.
3) After the a Denver punt to start the second half, which featured the Broncos not able to gain a yard for a first down from midfield, the Saints easily marched 90 yards to get an easy TD from Brees to Willie Snead from three yards out to tie it at 10. After another bad interception by Siemian, the Saints came right down the field and Brees hit Snead again for another easy touchdown to make it 17-10. At that point, as a Broncos fan, you felt that this game was going to be over and the Broncos were going to blow this game after dominating most of the first half.
4) Everytime you think that Siemian has lost it or will possibly gets benched, he comes back and make plays that are really good. You just can't figure it out. On the next drive, he stands in and makes some big throws to drive the Broncos into field goal range, but Brandon McManus missed a 42 yarder early in the 4th quarter to keep the score at 17-10.
5) The next big turning point in the game happened when Roby punched the ball out of Michael Thomas' hands and Stewart caught the fumble in mid-air, and returned it to the New Orleans to the Saints 27. Seven plays later, Siemian hit Demaryius Thomas on a 2 yard TD pass on a fade to tie it up at 17. That was the first play that saved the Broncos on this day.
6) After the Broncos defense forced a three and out with the help of a third down sack by Shaq Barrett, the Broncos got the ball back at the 47 after a really good punt return by Jordan Norwood, and they benefitted from a 15 yard late hit by Kenny Vaccaro and the Broncos were moving once again. The Broncos had to settle for a 28 yard field goal to give them the 20-17 lead. The next series was critical as well because on 2nd down, Michael Thomas got crushed by Jared Crick and fumbled and it was recovered by T.J. Ward at the Saints 20. With a chance to put the game away for good, the Broncos couldn't do it. They ran the ball twice for little yardage, and the Saints used both their timeouts. The Broncos threw on 3rd down, which I didn't disagree with, but the play was a bad one, and Siemian air-mailed it over Emmanuel Sanders head and it was incomplete. The Broncos settled for a field goal and a 23-17 lead, but Brees was getting the ball back with 2:50 left and down six. You knew that Brees was going to be tough to stop on that last drive.
7) Brees made two great throws on that drive. The first one was a sweet pass down the sideline to Brandin Cooks for a gain of 29 to the Broncos 46. Brees then hit Cooks again on a beautiful 32 yard TD pass on a post route in between two Broncos defenders to tie the game at 23. It was a perfect pass against pretty good coverage. At that point, all the Saints needed was the extra point to take the 24-23 lead with only 1:22 to go in the game. I don't think that Siemian would have been able to bring the Broncos down the field for the game-winning score, and I was thinking about how brutal of a loss this was going to be heading into the bye week.
8) On the extra point, the Broncos special teams came up with one of the plays of the year. Justin Simmons jumped over the center, it was legal by the way, and blocked the kick, and Will Parks picked it up and raced the distance down the sideline for the two point score and a 25-23 lead. It was an amazing play by Simmons, and a great return by Parks, eventhough it looked like he might have stepped out of bounds. It was reviewed but the view was inconclusive and the score stood. It was the first time that kind of play decided the outcome of a NFL game, and it was one of the most exciting finishes I've seen as a Broncos fan. If Denver makes the playoffs, this is the play that will be talked about as the one that saved the season.
9) After recovering the onside kick, the Broncos knelt down and the game was over. Denver escaped with a 25-23 win and got to 7-3 when it looked like they were going to blow this game in brutal fashion. Now, they can get a much needed bye next week and can rest up and get guys like Aqib Talib and Derek Wolfe healthy for the stretch run.
10) If you are looking to give out game balls, then give them to Darian Stewart, the Broncos run defense, Demaryius Thomas, Will Parks, Justin Simmons, and Siemian. Thomas had his best game of the year, and made big catches all day. Siemian hung in there, took a pounding, got sacked six times, and still made some big throws to rally his team. That was a gutsy performance for him, and you have to give him credit for battling back after throwing those two killer interceptions. The Broncos really dominated most of the game, but the Saints and Brees kept hanging around, and it looked like the Broncos were going to lose this one in brutal fashion, but they found a way to pull it out thanks to rookies Simmons and Parks.
11) At 7-3, the Broncos will return from the bye and host the Chiefs on November 27th in a game that was flexed into the Sunday night game on NBC. The Chiefs also won in Carolina on Sunday and they are 7-2, so this will be a very important game coming up. It was a memorable win for the Broncos and we can enjoy the bye week and get ready for the last six weeks of what will basically be playoff games every week. Go Broncos!
1) The game started exactly the way you need a game to start on the road. The Broncos forced a punt early, then they came down the field easily and Trevor Siemian hit Jordan Taylor on a really nice touchdown pass on a go route to give Denver a 7-0 lead. Then, they got a interception by Darian Stewart on Brees, and they were able to add to the lead with a Brandon McManus field goal to make it 10-0. Stewart also added another interception off of Brees on a great play by Bradley Roby to deflect it. That is about as good of a start that you can get on the road.
2) The turning point in the first half was when Siemian got picked off right before the half with the Broncos driving. It was a bad read by Siemian, and the Saints made them pay by getting a field goal to make it 10-3 right at the end of the half. That was a huge play at that point.
3) After the a Denver punt to start the second half, which featured the Broncos not able to gain a yard for a first down from midfield, the Saints easily marched 90 yards to get an easy TD from Brees to Willie Snead from three yards out to tie it at 10. After another bad interception by Siemian, the Saints came right down the field and Brees hit Snead again for another easy touchdown to make it 17-10. At that point, as a Broncos fan, you felt that this game was going to be over and the Broncos were going to blow this game after dominating most of the first half.
4) Everytime you think that Siemian has lost it or will possibly gets benched, he comes back and make plays that are really good. You just can't figure it out. On the next drive, he stands in and makes some big throws to drive the Broncos into field goal range, but Brandon McManus missed a 42 yarder early in the 4th quarter to keep the score at 17-10.
5) The next big turning point in the game happened when Roby punched the ball out of Michael Thomas' hands and Stewart caught the fumble in mid-air, and returned it to the New Orleans to the Saints 27. Seven plays later, Siemian hit Demaryius Thomas on a 2 yard TD pass on a fade to tie it up at 17. That was the first play that saved the Broncos on this day.
6) After the Broncos defense forced a three and out with the help of a third down sack by Shaq Barrett, the Broncos got the ball back at the 47 after a really good punt return by Jordan Norwood, and they benefitted from a 15 yard late hit by Kenny Vaccaro and the Broncos were moving once again. The Broncos had to settle for a 28 yard field goal to give them the 20-17 lead. The next series was critical as well because on 2nd down, Michael Thomas got crushed by Jared Crick and fumbled and it was recovered by T.J. Ward at the Saints 20. With a chance to put the game away for good, the Broncos couldn't do it. They ran the ball twice for little yardage, and the Saints used both their timeouts. The Broncos threw on 3rd down, which I didn't disagree with, but the play was a bad one, and Siemian air-mailed it over Emmanuel Sanders head and it was incomplete. The Broncos settled for a field goal and a 23-17 lead, but Brees was getting the ball back with 2:50 left and down six. You knew that Brees was going to be tough to stop on that last drive.
7) Brees made two great throws on that drive. The first one was a sweet pass down the sideline to Brandin Cooks for a gain of 29 to the Broncos 46. Brees then hit Cooks again on a beautiful 32 yard TD pass on a post route in between two Broncos defenders to tie the game at 23. It was a perfect pass against pretty good coverage. At that point, all the Saints needed was the extra point to take the 24-23 lead with only 1:22 to go in the game. I don't think that Siemian would have been able to bring the Broncos down the field for the game-winning score, and I was thinking about how brutal of a loss this was going to be heading into the bye week.
8) On the extra point, the Broncos special teams came up with one of the plays of the year. Justin Simmons jumped over the center, it was legal by the way, and blocked the kick, and Will Parks picked it up and raced the distance down the sideline for the two point score and a 25-23 lead. It was an amazing play by Simmons, and a great return by Parks, eventhough it looked like he might have stepped out of bounds. It was reviewed but the view was inconclusive and the score stood. It was the first time that kind of play decided the outcome of a NFL game, and it was one of the most exciting finishes I've seen as a Broncos fan. If Denver makes the playoffs, this is the play that will be talked about as the one that saved the season.
9) After recovering the onside kick, the Broncos knelt down and the game was over. Denver escaped with a 25-23 win and got to 7-3 when it looked like they were going to blow this game in brutal fashion. Now, they can get a much needed bye next week and can rest up and get guys like Aqib Talib and Derek Wolfe healthy for the stretch run.
10) If you are looking to give out game balls, then give them to Darian Stewart, the Broncos run defense, Demaryius Thomas, Will Parks, Justin Simmons, and Siemian. Thomas had his best game of the year, and made big catches all day. Siemian hung in there, took a pounding, got sacked six times, and still made some big throws to rally his team. That was a gutsy performance for him, and you have to give him credit for battling back after throwing those two killer interceptions. The Broncos really dominated most of the game, but the Saints and Brees kept hanging around, and it looked like the Broncos were going to lose this one in brutal fashion, but they found a way to pull it out thanks to rookies Simmons and Parks.
11) At 7-3, the Broncos will return from the bye and host the Chiefs on November 27th in a game that was flexed into the Sunday night game on NBC. The Chiefs also won in Carolina on Sunday and they are 7-2, so this will be a very important game coming up. It was a memorable win for the Broncos and we can enjoy the bye week and get ready for the last six weeks of what will basically be playoff games every week. Go Broncos!
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Broncos-Saints Preview and Week 10 Picks
The Broncos at 6-3 head to New Orleans to take on the 4-4 Saints on Sunday in what will be a pivotal game for Denver. After a butt-whipping at the hands of the Raiders last Sunday night, the Broncos are looking to get back on track with a win as they head into their bye week next week. Why is this a very troubling game to me? First, the Broncos are pretty banged up right now. Aqib Talib is still out with a back injury, Derek Wolfe might be out for a month with an elbow injury, Kayvon Webster is nursing a sore hamstring, Andy Janovich is banged up with a hand injury, and C.J. Anderson is still out indefinitely. The Broncos can't stop the run on defense right now, and they can't run the ball at all on offense. They have a shaky QB in Trevor Siemian, and the offense constantly starts slow and puts the defense in a bad spot to start the game. The Saints offense is explosive and Drew Brees will be a test for the beat up Broncos defense. I don't like that the Saints signed Shiloh Keo and TE John Phillips this week after they were released by the Broncos a few weeks ago. This happens all the time in the league, but this really scares me this week. Also, the Broncos played a road game Sunday night in Oakland, and now have to go back on the road for a game that starts at 12:00pm local time in New Orleans. This has all the makings of a very long day for the Broncos, and I think they will have a very hard time slowing down Drew Brees and the Saints offense. I'm not confident going into this one.
NEW ORLEANS (-2) over Denver
Final Score: Saints-30 Broncos-19
Last Week's Record: 7-5-1
Overall Record: 69-54-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Houston (-1) over JACKSONVILLE: Houston at 5-3 is still in the driver's seat of the putrid AFC South. They head to Jacksonville this week to take on the 2-6 Jaguars. I would expect the Texans to take care of business here and get the win, but I would be a on high alert for the upset. It wouldn't shock me to see the Jags pull this one out.
Kansas City (+3) over CAROLINA: To me, this is the toughest game to pick of the early games. I think that this will be a close game, and I think the Panthers got a little bit of momentum going after winning two in a row to get to 3-5. The Chiefs have been solid going 6-2 at this point. This will be a test for KC, and it looks like Alex Smith will return from a concussion. I think this game could go either way, but I will take the better team overall and that is the Chiefs.
Los Angeles (+3) over NY JETS: The 3-6 Jets are a mess right now. There were reports about Sheldon Richardson and Muhammad Wilkerson missing meetings. They have the Ryan Fitzpatrick situation at QB not getting them anywhere. Fitzpatrick is questionable for this week's game, and if he can't go, then Bryce Petty gets the start. In any event, the Rams at 3-5, desperately need a win. They can go into the Meadowlands and steal this game if the defense can step it up, and I think they will.
PHILLY (-1) over Atlanta: This is a very interesting game in the NFC. The Falcons are 6-3, and come in with 10 days rest after thumping Tampa Bay last week. The Eagles dropped a tough one to the Giants last Sunday to fall to 4-4. It's tempting to take the Falcons here because they have been good on the road, but the Eagles are the more desperate team, so I will go with Philly at home.
Minnesota (+3) over WASHINGTON: I know that the Vikings look like they are in disarray after losing three in a row, but I think they will stop the bleeding this week. They travel to the DC to take on the 4-3-1 Redskins. This will be a very close game, and somehow the Vikings will grind out a victory. Look for a 19-16 type of game.
Green Bay (-2) over TENNESSEE: How many people thought the Packers would be 4-4 at the midway point of the season? Certainly not me. Now, they head to Tennessee to take on the 4-5 Titans. This is a very important game for both teams. I will stick with the Packers here because I just can't see them falling to 4-5, but it is definitely not a lock. Aaron Rodgers has to breakout and have a big game here, and I think he will.
TAMPA BAY (Pick) over Chicago: This is the weakest game on the board for Sunday, and I think that the 4-5 Bucs will get the rare home win at home over the 2-6 Bears. That's about all I have on this one.
SAN DIEGO (-3) over Miami: Another very interesting game in the late window on Sunday afternoon. The 4-5 Chargers are not out of it in the AFC playoff picture. The suddenly hot Dolphins come in at 4-4 after winning three in a row. You have to take the Chargers at home with Phillip Rivers to pull out a win over a very feisty Dolphin team.
ARIZONA (-10) over San Francisco: The Cardinals are at home and need a win to get to 4-4-1. The 1-7 Niners come into town looking like a team that wants their HC to get fired. I'll take the Cards to roll to an easy win.
PITTSBURGH (-3) over Dallas: The marquee game of the day gets the marquee spot: 4:25 on Sunday afternoon. This will be a very good game to watch. The 7-1 Cowboys come rolling in with Dak Prescott and that offense. The Steelers are reeling after losing three straight and they looked really ugly in last week's loss to the Ravens. The Steelers will rebound and end the Cowboys seven game winning streak, and the they will get to 5-4. Take the Steelers at home in a very good game
Seattle (+7) over NEW ENGLAND: Another marquee game is on Sunday night as the Seahawks head to Foxboro in a rematch of Super Bowl XLIX. We know what happened the last time these two teams met. I can see the Seahawks struggling since this game is on the road, but I think they will keep it close. The Patriots are due for a game that comes down to the wire, and this could be it.
NY GIANTS (-1) over Cincy: Normally, I would say that the Giants will be in trouble in this game at home, but this year the G-Men are winning the close games. I think they will get to 6-3 here with a solid home win on Monday Night Football over the 3-4-1 Bengals. You always have to worry about the Eli Manning stinkbomb at home, but I don't think it happens this week.
NEW ORLEANS (-2) over Denver
Final Score: Saints-30 Broncos-19
Last Week's Record: 7-5-1
Overall Record: 69-54-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Houston (-1) over JACKSONVILLE: Houston at 5-3 is still in the driver's seat of the putrid AFC South. They head to Jacksonville this week to take on the 2-6 Jaguars. I would expect the Texans to take care of business here and get the win, but I would be a on high alert for the upset. It wouldn't shock me to see the Jags pull this one out.
Kansas City (+3) over CAROLINA: To me, this is the toughest game to pick of the early games. I think that this will be a close game, and I think the Panthers got a little bit of momentum going after winning two in a row to get to 3-5. The Chiefs have been solid going 6-2 at this point. This will be a test for KC, and it looks like Alex Smith will return from a concussion. I think this game could go either way, but I will take the better team overall and that is the Chiefs.
Los Angeles (+3) over NY JETS: The 3-6 Jets are a mess right now. There were reports about Sheldon Richardson and Muhammad Wilkerson missing meetings. They have the Ryan Fitzpatrick situation at QB not getting them anywhere. Fitzpatrick is questionable for this week's game, and if he can't go, then Bryce Petty gets the start. In any event, the Rams at 3-5, desperately need a win. They can go into the Meadowlands and steal this game if the defense can step it up, and I think they will.
PHILLY (-1) over Atlanta: This is a very interesting game in the NFC. The Falcons are 6-3, and come in with 10 days rest after thumping Tampa Bay last week. The Eagles dropped a tough one to the Giants last Sunday to fall to 4-4. It's tempting to take the Falcons here because they have been good on the road, but the Eagles are the more desperate team, so I will go with Philly at home.
Minnesota (+3) over WASHINGTON: I know that the Vikings look like they are in disarray after losing three in a row, but I think they will stop the bleeding this week. They travel to the DC to take on the 4-3-1 Redskins. This will be a very close game, and somehow the Vikings will grind out a victory. Look for a 19-16 type of game.
Green Bay (-2) over TENNESSEE: How many people thought the Packers would be 4-4 at the midway point of the season? Certainly not me. Now, they head to Tennessee to take on the 4-5 Titans. This is a very important game for both teams. I will stick with the Packers here because I just can't see them falling to 4-5, but it is definitely not a lock. Aaron Rodgers has to breakout and have a big game here, and I think he will.
TAMPA BAY (Pick) over Chicago: This is the weakest game on the board for Sunday, and I think that the 4-5 Bucs will get the rare home win at home over the 2-6 Bears. That's about all I have on this one.
SAN DIEGO (-3) over Miami: Another very interesting game in the late window on Sunday afternoon. The 4-5 Chargers are not out of it in the AFC playoff picture. The suddenly hot Dolphins come in at 4-4 after winning three in a row. You have to take the Chargers at home with Phillip Rivers to pull out a win over a very feisty Dolphin team.
ARIZONA (-10) over San Francisco: The Cardinals are at home and need a win to get to 4-4-1. The 1-7 Niners come into town looking like a team that wants their HC to get fired. I'll take the Cards to roll to an easy win.
PITTSBURGH (-3) over Dallas: The marquee game of the day gets the marquee spot: 4:25 on Sunday afternoon. This will be a very good game to watch. The 7-1 Cowboys come rolling in with Dak Prescott and that offense. The Steelers are reeling after losing three straight and they looked really ugly in last week's loss to the Ravens. The Steelers will rebound and end the Cowboys seven game winning streak, and the they will get to 5-4. Take the Steelers at home in a very good game
Seattle (+7) over NEW ENGLAND: Another marquee game is on Sunday night as the Seahawks head to Foxboro in a rematch of Super Bowl XLIX. We know what happened the last time these two teams met. I can see the Seahawks struggling since this game is on the road, but I think they will keep it close. The Patriots are due for a game that comes down to the wire, and this could be it.
NY GIANTS (-1) over Cincy: Normally, I would say that the Giants will be in trouble in this game at home, but this year the G-Men are winning the close games. I think they will get to 6-3 here with a solid home win on Monday Night Football over the 3-4-1 Bengals. You always have to worry about the Eli Manning stinkbomb at home, but I don't think it happens this week.
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
Raiders Run Past Broncos 30-20, Denver falls to Third in AFC West
The Broncos headed to Oakland for a huge AFC West game against the Raiders on Sunday night. The matchup featured two 6-2 teams in a battle for first place. The Raiders dominated from the get-go and cruised to a convincing 30-20 win over the Broncos in a statement game for both teams. Denver never lead the game and trailed 13-0 early and played from behind the whole game. The Raiders ran the ball down the Broncos throats, and now the Broncos are facing many questions as they fell to 6-3 and out of first place in the division. It was a not a good night on both sides of the ball, and this Broncos team is at a crossroads right now as we head into the latter part of the year. Here are my thoughts and observations about the game.
1) This offense is broken right now, and it has been like that for over a month. They can't run the ball at all. Denver had 33 total rushing yards. They couldn't get much movement on the Raiders defensive line, and there was just no room to run for Devontae Booker and Kapri Bibbs. Also, there are too many three and outs to start the game. How many times are the Broncos going to start a game with multiple three and outs? This game they started the first three possessions like that and next thing you know, they are down 13-0. Trevor Siemian is just not that good. Let's be honest on this one. I know it was a cute story early in the year, but the Bengals game in Week 3 was an aberration. His ceiling is average at best. I know he wasn't helped by some drops early in the game, but forget about his numbers, not once did he put fear into the hearts of the Raiders and their secondary. He can't continually throw short on 3rd and long/medium. It just can't happen anymore. There is also no rhythm and rhyme to this offense. The play calling early in the game had my head scratching at times. This offense is just bad at this point.
2) Speaking of bad, the run defense is right there as well. The Broncos front got gashed by bigger and stronger Raiders offensive line. They just couldn't match up physically. The Raiders knew that and dominated to the tune of over 200 yards rushing. There was nothing the Broncos could do at that point. I don't want to hear about effort and mistakes. It is what is it is at this point: The Broncos struggle at stopping the run. It isn't going to change overnight. It will be a problem every week unless they face a weak offensive line or have a big lead and the other team has to throw.
3) Bradley Roby had a rough night. He ot burned a lot and was overmatched, which resulted in a bunch of pass interference and defensive holding calls. It was a tough game for him.
4) The Broncos got behind 13-0 early in the game, and I never felt that they were going to get back into the game. Even after Siemian's TD throw to Jordan Norwood to make it 13-7, it just felt like they were in trouble. It felt like the game was being played on a tilted field in favor of the Raiders. Oakland had the advantage in field position for most of the game, and they dominated in time of possession. It was about as convincing of a win as you are going to get.
5) Derek Wolfe injured his elbow and left the game and the early word is that he could be a out for a month. The Broncos really missed Aqib Talib. You could see the difference without him and Roby is simply better suited as a nickel corner at this point. We need to get healthy on defense and we need to get healthy fast.
6) Broncos were due for a loss in Oakland. They had won five straight there, and it looked like it was going to be the Raiders night. Now, Denver has lost two straight on the road in the AFC West. They are 1-2 in the division as well. All is not lost in the AFC West, but the Broncos still have a visit to KC on Christmas Night, and I have a lot of doubts about their ability to win a big game on the road at this point.
7) The Raiders were the better team on this night. They deserve to be in first place in the AFC West. It was their moment and hopefully the Broncos can return the favor in Week 17 in Denver. The Broncos now fall to 6-3, and they are behind the Raiders at 7-2 and and behind the Chiefs at 6-2. This is a must win game at New Orleans on Sunday. The Saints are playing better and are now 4-4. If Denver loses this game and stands at 6-4 heading to the bye, there will be a lot of panicking from the fanbase. They have to find a way to come out on top on Sunday.
1) This offense is broken right now, and it has been like that for over a month. They can't run the ball at all. Denver had 33 total rushing yards. They couldn't get much movement on the Raiders defensive line, and there was just no room to run for Devontae Booker and Kapri Bibbs. Also, there are too many three and outs to start the game. How many times are the Broncos going to start a game with multiple three and outs? This game they started the first three possessions like that and next thing you know, they are down 13-0. Trevor Siemian is just not that good. Let's be honest on this one. I know it was a cute story early in the year, but the Bengals game in Week 3 was an aberration. His ceiling is average at best. I know he wasn't helped by some drops early in the game, but forget about his numbers, not once did he put fear into the hearts of the Raiders and their secondary. He can't continually throw short on 3rd and long/medium. It just can't happen anymore. There is also no rhythm and rhyme to this offense. The play calling early in the game had my head scratching at times. This offense is just bad at this point.
2) Speaking of bad, the run defense is right there as well. The Broncos front got gashed by bigger and stronger Raiders offensive line. They just couldn't match up physically. The Raiders knew that and dominated to the tune of over 200 yards rushing. There was nothing the Broncos could do at that point. I don't want to hear about effort and mistakes. It is what is it is at this point: The Broncos struggle at stopping the run. It isn't going to change overnight. It will be a problem every week unless they face a weak offensive line or have a big lead and the other team has to throw.
3) Bradley Roby had a rough night. He ot burned a lot and was overmatched, which resulted in a bunch of pass interference and defensive holding calls. It was a tough game for him.
4) The Broncos got behind 13-0 early in the game, and I never felt that they were going to get back into the game. Even after Siemian's TD throw to Jordan Norwood to make it 13-7, it just felt like they were in trouble. It felt like the game was being played on a tilted field in favor of the Raiders. Oakland had the advantage in field position for most of the game, and they dominated in time of possession. It was about as convincing of a win as you are going to get.
5) Derek Wolfe injured his elbow and left the game and the early word is that he could be a out for a month. The Broncos really missed Aqib Talib. You could see the difference without him and Roby is simply better suited as a nickel corner at this point. We need to get healthy on defense and we need to get healthy fast.
6) Broncos were due for a loss in Oakland. They had won five straight there, and it looked like it was going to be the Raiders night. Now, Denver has lost two straight on the road in the AFC West. They are 1-2 in the division as well. All is not lost in the AFC West, but the Broncos still have a visit to KC on Christmas Night, and I have a lot of doubts about their ability to win a big game on the road at this point.
7) The Raiders were the better team on this night. They deserve to be in first place in the AFC West. It was their moment and hopefully the Broncos can return the favor in Week 17 in Denver. The Broncos now fall to 6-3, and they are behind the Raiders at 7-2 and and behind the Chiefs at 6-2. This is a must win game at New Orleans on Sunday. The Saints are playing better and are now 4-4. If Denver loses this game and stands at 6-4 heading to the bye, there will be a lot of panicking from the fanbase. They have to find a way to come out on top on Sunday.
Thursday, November 3, 2016
Broncos-Raiders Preview and Week 9 Picks!
The Broncos and Raiders meet on Sunday Night Football in the biggest game in this rivalry since Week 16 of the 2002 season. Both teams come in at 6-2, and the winner will have sole possession of the AFC West. It feels great to see this matchup really mean something at this point in the season. There are a lot of storylines surrounding this game. The Raiders have won five games on the road this year, and every game they have won have been close and wildly entertaining. Derek Carr and their offense are playing great, but now they get a test with the Broncos and their defense coming to town. The Raiders are only 1-2 at home, and you wonder if they are just a better team on the road. Plus, is Carr ready to go up against this Broncos defense? The Broncos have played very well when they have faced Carr in the past. Maybe the Broncos are too much for this Raiders team? The Broncos are banged up on defense and Aqib Talib looks like a game-time decision. I can see the Raiders being able to move the ball just enough to get a lead and get points on the board, and that doesn't bode well for Trevor Siemian and the struggling Broncos offense. In any event, this game will be fun to watch, and I have the feeling will get the better of the Broncos in this game, and the Broncos will get their revenge down the road when they host the Raiders in Week 17.
OAKLAND (-1) over Denver
Final Score: Raiders-24 Broncos-16
Last Week's Record: 7-6
Overall Record: 63-49-7
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
JACKSONVILLE (+7.5) over Kansas City: At 5-2, the Chiefs are on a roll and very much in the thick of the AFC West race. Alex Smith is out this week with a concussion, and Nick Foles will get the start. Normally, I would take the Chiefs here on the road, but I'm going to go with the Jags as big underdogs at home. I think this is a must win for the Jags, and they have to find a way to win this game. I think if they lose, they might be it for Gus Bradley, so I could see them playing well enough to pull the upset.
MINNESOTA (-6) over Detroit: The Vikings were dominant in their 5-0 start, but they have lost their last two games including a terrible loss at Chicago on Monday night. Then, offensive coordinator Norv Turner abruptly resigned. They seem like a team in turmoil, but I think they rebound here as the 4-4 Lions come into town. I think this game could be close, but I think the Vikings are going to come back and play well-especially with this game at home.
Philadelphia (+3) over NY GIANTS: This is a huge game in the NFC East. Philly comes in at 4-3 after a brutal loss to Dallas, and the Giants come in at 4-3. I think this will be a very close game, but I will side with the Eagles because I think their defense will be able to disrupt the Giants offense and that will be the difference.
Dallas (-7) over CLEVELAND: Sorry Cleveland fans, but the Browns aren't going to help ease the pain of the Indians World Series loss to the Cubs this week, and the red-hot Cowboys come to town to take out the Browns on Sunday. The Cowboys are here to stay this year, and they are a legitimate contender in the NFC. I don't think they lose their focus in this one.
MIAMI (-3) over NY Jets: The Jets have breathed life into their season after winning two in a row, and now are 3-5 as they head to their rivals in Miami. The Dolphins are 3-4 after a two game winning streak, and they have RB Jay Ajayi, who posted back-to-back 200 yard games. I think the Dolphins will be able to take care of business at home in this game. It is hard to trust the Dolphins a lot of times when they are the favorite, but I like them in this spot.
BALTIMORE: (+2) over Pittsburgh: The Ravens started 3-0, and now have lost four straight games and enter this game at 3-4. Joe Flacco doesn't look the same as he is recovering from an ACL injury, and the Ravens just look pretty bad the last month. The Steelers come in at 4-3 and it looks like Big Ben might actually play in this game. Even if Ben plays, I think the Ravens will win because they are the more desperate team, and the Steelers will be fine this year even if they lose this game.
SAN FRANCISCO (+5) over New Orleans: I know the 49ers are really terrible, and the Saints have found themselves at 3-4. The Saints are back into the mix somewhat as a wild card threat, but this game could be tricky. Can we really just that Saints defense on the road. I think this could be a upset I the making.
Carolina (-3) over LOS ANGELES: The Rams have only played two home games in Los Angeles since the season started. I think the Rams are going to be a hot mess the rest of the season, and at some point they will have to start Jared Goff at QB. I think their season will start to unravel, and I see the Panthers going into LA and coming away with a victory to get to 3-5.
GREEN BAY (-7) over Indy: The Packers lost a tough game on the road in Atlanta last week, and at 4-3 the doubts are starting to creep in. I don't buy it and this is a perfect game for them. The Colts just stink, and you have to worry about Andrew Luck making a late-game comeback, but I think the Packers will take care of business and get the win at home on Sunday.
SAN DIEGO (-4) over Tennessee: This is actually a very interesting game in the late window on Sunday afternoon. The Titans are playing pretty well, and they are in the mix for the AFC South crown. The Chargers lost a tough one at Denver on Sunday, but at 3-5 they still have a chance to make some sort of run in the wild card race in the AFC. Look for them to get the win at home, but I think this will be a very good game and should be interesting to watch.
SEATTLE (-7) over Buffalo: We all know about the Seahawks trouble on the offensive line. They have struggled mightily in that area, and they are coming off a tie at Arizona and bad loss at New Orleans. I think they will be okay at home in front of that crowd on Monday night. This looks like a very tough game for the Bills to win. As much as I love the Bills fans for their actions during tailgating (Throwing each other throw tables in a WWE style and doing shots off hot girls), they hit their apex as a fanbase when a fan threw a dildo on the field during a play in last week's game against the Patriots. Unfortunately, they are 4-4 and this seems like an impossible spot for them to win. This seems like a 22-10 type of win for the Seahawks.
OAKLAND (-1) over Denver
Final Score: Raiders-24 Broncos-16
Last Week's Record: 7-6
Overall Record: 63-49-7
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
JACKSONVILLE (+7.5) over Kansas City: At 5-2, the Chiefs are on a roll and very much in the thick of the AFC West race. Alex Smith is out this week with a concussion, and Nick Foles will get the start. Normally, I would take the Chiefs here on the road, but I'm going to go with the Jags as big underdogs at home. I think this is a must win for the Jags, and they have to find a way to win this game. I think if they lose, they might be it for Gus Bradley, so I could see them playing well enough to pull the upset.
MINNESOTA (-6) over Detroit: The Vikings were dominant in their 5-0 start, but they have lost their last two games including a terrible loss at Chicago on Monday night. Then, offensive coordinator Norv Turner abruptly resigned. They seem like a team in turmoil, but I think they rebound here as the 4-4 Lions come into town. I think this game could be close, but I think the Vikings are going to come back and play well-especially with this game at home.
Philadelphia (+3) over NY GIANTS: This is a huge game in the NFC East. Philly comes in at 4-3 after a brutal loss to Dallas, and the Giants come in at 4-3. I think this will be a very close game, but I will side with the Eagles because I think their defense will be able to disrupt the Giants offense and that will be the difference.
Dallas (-7) over CLEVELAND: Sorry Cleveland fans, but the Browns aren't going to help ease the pain of the Indians World Series loss to the Cubs this week, and the red-hot Cowboys come to town to take out the Browns on Sunday. The Cowboys are here to stay this year, and they are a legitimate contender in the NFC. I don't think they lose their focus in this one.
MIAMI (-3) over NY Jets: The Jets have breathed life into their season after winning two in a row, and now are 3-5 as they head to their rivals in Miami. The Dolphins are 3-4 after a two game winning streak, and they have RB Jay Ajayi, who posted back-to-back 200 yard games. I think the Dolphins will be able to take care of business at home in this game. It is hard to trust the Dolphins a lot of times when they are the favorite, but I like them in this spot.
BALTIMORE: (+2) over Pittsburgh: The Ravens started 3-0, and now have lost four straight games and enter this game at 3-4. Joe Flacco doesn't look the same as he is recovering from an ACL injury, and the Ravens just look pretty bad the last month. The Steelers come in at 4-3 and it looks like Big Ben might actually play in this game. Even if Ben plays, I think the Ravens will win because they are the more desperate team, and the Steelers will be fine this year even if they lose this game.
SAN FRANCISCO (+5) over New Orleans: I know the 49ers are really terrible, and the Saints have found themselves at 3-4. The Saints are back into the mix somewhat as a wild card threat, but this game could be tricky. Can we really just that Saints defense on the road. I think this could be a upset I the making.
Carolina (-3) over LOS ANGELES: The Rams have only played two home games in Los Angeles since the season started. I think the Rams are going to be a hot mess the rest of the season, and at some point they will have to start Jared Goff at QB. I think their season will start to unravel, and I see the Panthers going into LA and coming away with a victory to get to 3-5.
GREEN BAY (-7) over Indy: The Packers lost a tough game on the road in Atlanta last week, and at 4-3 the doubts are starting to creep in. I don't buy it and this is a perfect game for them. The Colts just stink, and you have to worry about Andrew Luck making a late-game comeback, but I think the Packers will take care of business and get the win at home on Sunday.
SAN DIEGO (-4) over Tennessee: This is actually a very interesting game in the late window on Sunday afternoon. The Titans are playing pretty well, and they are in the mix for the AFC South crown. The Chargers lost a tough one at Denver on Sunday, but at 3-5 they still have a chance to make some sort of run in the wild card race in the AFC. Look for them to get the win at home, but I think this will be a very good game and should be interesting to watch.
SEATTLE (-7) over Buffalo: We all know about the Seahawks trouble on the offensive line. They have struggled mightily in that area, and they are coming off a tie at Arizona and bad loss at New Orleans. I think they will be okay at home in front of that crowd on Monday night. This looks like a very tough game for the Bills to win. As much as I love the Bills fans for their actions during tailgating (Throwing each other throw tables in a WWE style and doing shots off hot girls), they hit their apex as a fanbase when a fan threw a dildo on the field during a play in last week's game against the Patriots. Unfortunately, they are 4-4 and this seems like an impossible spot for them to win. This seems like a 22-10 type of win for the Seahawks.
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Broncos Pull Out Ugly Win over Chargers 27-19, Get to 6-2
The Broncos avenged their loss to the Chargers a few weeks ago and won a very strange and ugly game on Sunday in Denver. The Broncos defense came up once again with a huge goal line stand, and they stopped the Chargers on four straight tries from the 2 yard line up 27-19 to preserve the lead. The Chargers got the ball back again, but the Broncos defense stuffed them and forced a turnover on downs. After they ran out the clock, the Broncos exhaled and improved to 6-2 in a game that featured Aqib Talib and Brandon Marshall on the sidelines with injuries. It wasn't pretty but it was effective and the Broncos got the win at home-which is the most important thing. Here are my thoughts and observations on the game.....
1) This was a very strange, weird game. Both teams blew a lot of opportunities. The Broncos fumbled the ball twice inside the redzone, and Trevor Siemian threw a pick-six. The Chargers missed a field goal near the end of the half, Phillip Rivers threw three interceptions and one was returned for a touchdown by Bradley Roby, and they had a blocked extra point. It was a mess of a game at times, and although it came down to the Broncos stopping the Chargers twice late in the game, once from inside the 2, it was just a very weird game overall.
2) The Broncos defense was all over Rivers the entire game. This is what we have been used to when the Broncos and Chargers play in recent years. The Broncos got four sacks, three interceptions, a pick-six, and they pressured Rivers over 60% of his dropbacks. Bradley Roby's interception return changed the game and gave Denver a 10-7 in the 2nd quarter. Derek Wolfe continues to play well every week, and give the secondary some credit. With Talib out, T.J. Ward got a huge pick in the 3rd quarter, and Darian Stewart also got one on back-to-back possessions. Then, with the game on the lien once again, they made the two big stops on the Chargers final drive. Their run defense continues to be a problem though. Melvin Gordon rushed for 111 yards-the first RB over 100 since Week 2 of last year- and the Broncos defense gave up some big runs to Gordon late in the game. That is the one weakness at this point. It was nice to see Demarcus Ware out there and he makes such a difference in the pass rush when he is there. I also thought that CB Lorenzo Doss and LB Corey Nelson played well in place of Brandon Marshall and Aqib Talib. The Broncos defense is the story once again in the victory.
3) The offense struggled at times and there is just too much inconsistency with this group. On the first drive of the game, Trevor Siemian drives them down the field and they settle for a field goal. They did nothing after that, and the only drive that they moved the ball, Siemian got sacked and fumbled inside the Chargers 20. After that, they got the benefit of the Stewart interception and return, and Devontae Booker banged it in from 2 yards out to make it 17-7. Then, they had trouble until late in the 3rd quarter when they moved the ball once again and a Juwan Thompson 1 yard TD run made it 24-13. For some reason on a 3rd and long backed up in their own territory, Siemian threw a pick-six, although Jordan Norwood didn't help him out, and the Chargers were back it at 24-19 after the failed two-point conversion. Unfortunately, they couldn't put the game away late in the 4th after Siemian hit Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders on two deep throws, but the drive stalled inside the SD 10 and they settled for a field goal to make 27-19 instead of 31-19. At 31-19, the game is over, but the eight point lead gave the Chargers one last chance to try to tie the game. They couldn't run the ball at all in the game, and Booker finished with barely over 50 yards rushing. His fumble inside the five was also a killer with Denver up 17-7 in the 3rd quarter. This offense is too inconsistent, Siemian is a not a big-time QB and is limited in what he can do, and they simply can't run the ball. It will be a struggle to watch this offense week in and week out.
4) The game ball should go to Riley Dixon for his huge punt out of the endzone late in the game. He boomed a punt 68 yards and the Chargers had to start at their own 33 yard line with 2:08 to go. The defense only gave up one first down and then shut the door and harassed Rivers and put the game away four plays later after three incompletions. Dixon's kick was part of the difference in the win.
5) The Broncos are 6-2, and now they head to Oakland for a huge showdown with the 6-2 Raiders. This will be the biggest game between these two teams since Week 16 of the 2002 season. It will be a very fun setting in the Black Hole with first place in the AFC West on the line.
1) This was a very strange, weird game. Both teams blew a lot of opportunities. The Broncos fumbled the ball twice inside the redzone, and Trevor Siemian threw a pick-six. The Chargers missed a field goal near the end of the half, Phillip Rivers threw three interceptions and one was returned for a touchdown by Bradley Roby, and they had a blocked extra point. It was a mess of a game at times, and although it came down to the Broncos stopping the Chargers twice late in the game, once from inside the 2, it was just a very weird game overall.
2) The Broncos defense was all over Rivers the entire game. This is what we have been used to when the Broncos and Chargers play in recent years. The Broncos got four sacks, three interceptions, a pick-six, and they pressured Rivers over 60% of his dropbacks. Bradley Roby's interception return changed the game and gave Denver a 10-7 in the 2nd quarter. Derek Wolfe continues to play well every week, and give the secondary some credit. With Talib out, T.J. Ward got a huge pick in the 3rd quarter, and Darian Stewart also got one on back-to-back possessions. Then, with the game on the lien once again, they made the two big stops on the Chargers final drive. Their run defense continues to be a problem though. Melvin Gordon rushed for 111 yards-the first RB over 100 since Week 2 of last year- and the Broncos defense gave up some big runs to Gordon late in the game. That is the one weakness at this point. It was nice to see Demarcus Ware out there and he makes such a difference in the pass rush when he is there. I also thought that CB Lorenzo Doss and LB Corey Nelson played well in place of Brandon Marshall and Aqib Talib. The Broncos defense is the story once again in the victory.
3) The offense struggled at times and there is just too much inconsistency with this group. On the first drive of the game, Trevor Siemian drives them down the field and they settle for a field goal. They did nothing after that, and the only drive that they moved the ball, Siemian got sacked and fumbled inside the Chargers 20. After that, they got the benefit of the Stewart interception and return, and Devontae Booker banged it in from 2 yards out to make it 17-7. Then, they had trouble until late in the 3rd quarter when they moved the ball once again and a Juwan Thompson 1 yard TD run made it 24-13. For some reason on a 3rd and long backed up in their own territory, Siemian threw a pick-six, although Jordan Norwood didn't help him out, and the Chargers were back it at 24-19 after the failed two-point conversion. Unfortunately, they couldn't put the game away late in the 4th after Siemian hit Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders on two deep throws, but the drive stalled inside the SD 10 and they settled for a field goal to make 27-19 instead of 31-19. At 31-19, the game is over, but the eight point lead gave the Chargers one last chance to try to tie the game. They couldn't run the ball at all in the game, and Booker finished with barely over 50 yards rushing. His fumble inside the five was also a killer with Denver up 17-7 in the 3rd quarter. This offense is too inconsistent, Siemian is a not a big-time QB and is limited in what he can do, and they simply can't run the ball. It will be a struggle to watch this offense week in and week out.
4) The game ball should go to Riley Dixon for his huge punt out of the endzone late in the game. He boomed a punt 68 yards and the Chargers had to start at their own 33 yard line with 2:08 to go. The defense only gave up one first down and then shut the door and harassed Rivers and put the game away four plays later after three incompletions. Dixon's kick was part of the difference in the win.
5) The Broncos are 6-2, and now they head to Oakland for a huge showdown with the 6-2 Raiders. This will be the biggest game between these two teams since Week 16 of the 2002 season. It will be a very fun setting in the Black Hole with first place in the AFC West on the line.
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